What to Look for in a Demolition Company

A demolition company takes down buildings and structures. The demolition process includes surveys and planning before the actual demolition is completed.

A demolition business requires heavy equipment and skilled workers to operate it. It also needs to have the right licenses, insurance and safety precautions. The business can be run as a sole proprietorship or an LLC.

Experience

The best demolition companies will have extensive experience with a range of different types of projects. Depending on the demolition process, this could include handling hazardous materials or working with large structures that require specialized equipment like wrecking balls. It is also helpful to consider the size of the project that each demolition company has worked on in the past.

Demolition contractors are also trained in how to handle and dispose of all the waste material that is created during the demolition process. This is important because certain materials like asbestos are toxic and need to be handled with extreme care. They can then safely transport this material to a designated waste management facility.

Demolition companies will also be able to provide clear timelines for the completion of demolition projects. This is a crucial consideration as it will help you plan ahead for any further construction work that may need to be completed on the property.

Licenses

Demolition companies typically require state or local contractor licenses. These requirements vary by state, but often include a requirement for workers’ compensation and equipment insurance. Obtaining these credentials can help mitigate risk and protect the company against liability for injuries to employees or damages to property.

Inquire about specialized certifications that may be necessary for your demolition business, such as for handling hazardous materials or operating large machinery. Your location and type of work may also determine whether your business needs additional permits or authorizations.

Determine what legal structure best suits your demolition business model. Choosing the right structure can shape tax considerations, personal liability and other legal considerations. A sole proprietorship, for example, essentially combines the business owner with the business and creates a direct connection between income and taxes, while other business structures can separate profits from personal expenses. Regardless of your chosen business structure, open a bank account for your business. This makes filing taxes easier and helps establish a clear line between your business and your own financials.

Insurance

Demolition businesses are susceptible to a number of risks due to the nature of their work, and the industry requires extensive insurance and liability policies to safeguard against financial loss. Failure to carry these coverages could lead to a significant lawsuit that can wreak havoc on your demolition company and its future growth.

Having a workers’ compensation policy helps cover medical expenses and lost wages for your employees should they be injured while working. Because demolition has a higher risk of injury than most other professions, this type of coverage is essential for your business.

Commercial general liability (CGL) is another important insurance for demolition companies. It covers any physical injuries or property damage caused by the business’ operations, such as when improperly stored explosives explode on a job site or if a blast causes damage to nearby structures. Inland marine insurance, or equipment insurance, protects mobile machinery like loaders and bulldozers that are present on a client’s site. It also covers theft and vandalism of these machines or tools not permanently attached to your business vehicles.

Safety

Demolition work is dangerous, and workers need to be trained on the hazards they will face and how to stay safe. This includes training on how to use demolition equipment and understanding the proper selection, fit, inspection, and maintenance of personal protective equipment.

A thorough hazard analysis must be conducted before any demolition is undertaken to identify potential issues like natural hazards, electrical problems, or animal hazards. The company must also ensure that the site is cleared of toxic waste and shards of metal that could harm anyone working on the construction of the new building.

Falling from heights is a common risk associated with demolition activities, and it can cause serious injuries or even death. The company must take extensive measures to mitigate this danger, including conducting an engineering survey, controlling utility services, preparing for medical emergencies, and providing workers with appropriate safety gear. This gear typically consists of harnesses and lanyards that prevent falls from structures.

from Demolition Hobart Solutions https://ift.tt/2kIb6K4
via IFTTT